Tampa Probation Violations

Probation Violation Attorney Serving Tampa for Over 20 Years

If you face criminal charges in Tampa, you will learn a lot about Florida’s criminal procedure, which typically involves probation—a type of sentence imposed on some people who are convicted of certain crimes. When a defendant is found guilty, they may be sentenced to jail. In some cases, the defendant serves a part of their sentence in jail and the rest of the sentence on probation. The defendant’s sentence is suspended while they are supervised in the community on probation.

While on probation, the defendant must comply with a strict list of terms. If they violate any of the terms, they can be brought before a judge to address the violation. If the judge determines that the probationer violated their probation, the judge can revoke the probation (take it away) and send the probationer to jail to carry out their original sentence.

Accused of Violating Your Probation’s Terms?

Being accused of violating probation is a serious criminal charge that may result in imprisonment or extended probation. It is crucial that you hire an experienced defense team that can protect your rights. At The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk, we’ve handled thousands of cases and can help with even the most difficult probation violation charges. You have the right to challenge allegations that you have violated probation. 

In the face of an alleged probation violation, working with a Tampa criminal defense attorney may be the key to protecting your freedom. Contact us today to learn more.

Probation Violations: Terms & Conditions

In Florida, the “terms and conditions of probation” are covered under Section 948.03 of the Florida Statutes. Under Sec. 948.03 it states, “The court shall determine the terms and conditions of probation.” What this means is there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to probation. Even if two defendants commit the same crime, they may have a different set of probation conditions imposed.

The following are examples of general, or standard, probation conditions:

• Pay all court-ordered fines and fees.
• Remain in a specific area, such as the county you live in.
• Do not break any state or federal laws while on probation.
• Faithfully maintain suitable employment.
• If you hurt somebody or caused someone to suffer financial loss, pay restitution.
• Report to your probation officer as directed by the court.
• Do not associate with people who engage in criminal activity.
• Do not carry, own, or possess any firearm without your probation officer's consent.
• Do not possess any controlled substances or drugs without a valid prescription.
• Submit to random drug and alcohol testing.

Special Conditions of Probation

A probationer may have other special conditions of probation as well. For example, if the probationer committed a drug or alcohol offense, such as DUI, they may be ordered to abstain. They may also be ordered to stay away from all establishments that serve or sell alcohol.

The following are examples of special conditions:

• You must attend a support group.
• You cannot associate with a certain person while on probation.
• You cannot contact the victim or their family members.
• You must receive mandatory treatment and counseling.
• You must pay for and successfully complete anger management classes.
• Pay for and attend an HIV/AIDS Awareness Program that lasts two to four hours.

If you fail to do any of these things, whether it's a standard or special condition, your probation officer will decide whether to give you a warning or take the matter to a probation violation hearing.

We Can Help with Probation Violation Charges

Things might seem hopeless in the face of an alleged probation violation, but you still have rights. You still have options. As a Tampa probation violation lawyer with more than two decades of experience, Attorney Jeff Paulk knows how to help. We encourage you to reach out to our firm now to learn more.

Learn how a probation violation attorney in Tampa can help; call (813) 321-7323 or contact The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk online.